Nestled between the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Moreno Valley, the picturesque mountain community of Angel Fire has stunning views and abundant outdoor activities. From skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the winter to hiking, fishing, and mountain biking in the summer, Angel Fire supplies residents and visitors with plenty of ways to stay active.
Of course, Angel Fire also offers a variety of cultural and artistic attractions, as well as numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. The town plays host to several events throughout the year, including a summer music festival, a winter carnival, and a holiday parade. With the endless list of things to do in Angel Fire, the hardest choice may simply be where to start, so read on for some less-traveled opportunities you will not want to miss.
#1. Hiking at Wheeler Peak
Hiking Wheeler Peak is one of the most rewarding things to do in Angel Fire. Located at an elevation of 13,167 feet above sea level, it is the highest peak in the state and offers visitors a variety of terrains and scenery. From the top, you can see the nearby mountains and valleys stretching out in all directions, and the surrounding landscape is filled with lush conifer forests, alpine meadows and glacial cirques.
The trails at Wheeler Peak meander through forests and meadows, offering stunning views of the mountain range. From short, family-friendly hikes to more challenging overnight treks, there is sure to be a trail that suited to your individual abilities. You can even take a guided tour to learn more about the history and ecology of the area.
#2. Mountain biking at Angel Fire Bike Park
The Angel Fire Bike Park provides a thrilling and rewarding experience within its extensive network of trails, ranging from beginner to expert. You can enjoy downhill trails that offer a mix of jumps, berms, and drops, or take it easy on the cross-country trails and enjoy the scenery. The park also has plenty of technical trails that challenge even the most experienced riders.
If you did not bring a bike with you, the park even has rentals. You can also try out a guided tour or take a lesson from one of the experienced instructors. Sporting a bike shop, bike wash station, and even a restaurant with outdoor seating, you can easily spend the whole day in the park without wanting for anything, and quickly have your equipment packed up and ready for the next day without too much hassle. If you’re looking for a unique and exciting experience, mountain biking at Angel Fire Bike Park is sure to be an unforgettable one.
#3. Go fishing at Eagle Nest Lake
No matter the season, Eagle Nest Lake provides plenty of opportunities for anglers. Spin fishing — casting a lure into the lake with a regular rod and reel — is the most common type of fishing here. Popular catches include trout, bass, and perch. Fly fishing is also popular at Eagle Nest Lake, especially during the spring and summer months, when trout, grayling, and kokanee salmon are striking. And even in the coldest months of the year, Eagle Nest Lake attracts avid anglers to cut holes in the ice and pull out trout, perch, and northern pike.
Overall, Eagle Nest Lake is a great place for anglers of all skill levels to come together and enjoy a day of fishing. With all of the different types of fish — and types of fishing — you can always find something that fits your personal tastes.
#4. Driving the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway
Driving the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway is one of the best ways to experience the area’s beauty and culture. After leaving Angel Fire, this 84-mile loop passes through the towns of Taos, Red River, Questa, and Eagle Nest. Along the way, the byway captivates travelers with lush greenery and awe-inspiring views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Wheeler Peak, and the Moreno Valley.
The byway also passes through a number of interesting sites and places for enjoyable day-trip activities. You can visit the Taos Pueblo, a community of homes constructed over a thousand years ago, and learn about the area’s ancient culture. The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is a popular spot for taking in the stunning views of the Rio Grande River, and for those looking for an adventure, the Wheeler Peak Wilderness Area provides plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. Red River is the perfect place to relax with its cozy restaurants and shops, and Eagle Nest Lake State Park is a great spot for swimming, boating, and birdwatching.
#5. Taking a dip in the Monte Verde Lake
Monte Verde Lake is a scenic body of water nestled in the Moreno Valley, and surrounded by the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and brown trout, making it a great spot for fishing, or you can take a canoe or kayak out and explore the serene waters. The lake is said to be even better in the summertime when the sun is shining and the temperatures are warm.
For those who prefer to stay on the shore, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy. Monte Verde Lake has several picnic areas located around its perimeter where you can relax and soak up the beautiful views. There are also several hiking trails for exploring the nearby forests, and you can take a leisurely walk through the trails, or even take a challenging mountain bike ride. There is also a playground nearby, making it a great spot for families to spend the day.
#6. Visit Angel Fire Resort
Angel Fire Resort offers year-round activities for adventurers of all ages. During the winter months, the resort offers some of New Mexico’s best skiing and snowboarding as well as a snow play area for tubing, and trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. In the spring and summer, the resort offers meticulously groomed trails for mountain biking and hiking, beautiful golf courses, and zip-lining adventures.
Setting up basecamp in Angel Fire
There are more than enough things to do in Angel Fire that would fill a whole series of visits, so it is understandable that so many choose to buy a home in the area. When you are looking at Angel Fire homes for sale, an experienced and knowledgeable real estate agent such as those at The Hoffmann Team can ensure you find sale terms that will leave you as happy and satisfied as a day out on the lake.
Recommended reading: Best Angel Fire Country Clubs
